Listen

Do not be ashamed, then, of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace. This grace was given to us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Think

It’s happened to all of us at some point. We see or hear about something happening that we know goes against Christ’s teachings and we just let it happen. We stand by, come up with an excuse, and convince ourselves that it’s not worth saying or doing anything. Our lack of response can be seen as being ashamed “of the testimony about our Lord.” (Even if the situation is dangerous, we can respond by spending time in prayer.)

Paul (the writer of today's passage) challenges us to make sacrifices as we live lives of discipleship. Proclaiming God’s love and justice might make us unpopular; it might take more time than we want to give. Intervening sometimes means that the problem will get worse before it gets better. Do you have the energy to deal with all of this?

The good news is that we’re called to rely on God’s power as we live sacrificial lives of discipleship. God is with us. God loves and supports us. Therefore, there’s no need for us to be ashamed.

Pray

Go

From deep within your soul
Something beautiful is growing –
Wild and wonderful,
Fruitful and free.

Yield now to the gentle care
Of the One who watches over you,
Tending your soul with great love
And infinite confidence.

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writer

Michael Harper

Michael Harper is a youth ministry consultant, freelance editor, and team building facilitator in Louisville, Kentucky. He loves eating Tex-Mex, hanging out around campfires, and riding his bike along the Ohio River.